Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re curious about Philadelphia’s darker side, the Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl promises a lively, spine-tingling experience that blends history, ghost stories, and a bit of pub-hopping. This tour, offered by US Ghost Adventures, earns a strong 4.6 out of 5 stars from nine reviews, which speaks to its popularity and the quality of storytelling. It’s an interesting mix of chilling tales and historic landmarks, with a dash of fun at some of the city’s oldest pubs.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances entertainment with education—your guide shares spooky tales rooted in Philadelphia’s past while you enjoy a relaxed walk through some iconic locations. The tour’s highlight is definitely visiting the 250-year-old City Tavern, where you can imagine the Founding Fathers sipping whiskey after drafting the Constitution. However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t designed to be a wild night out—drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. This makes it ideal for history buffs, fans of ghost stories, or anyone interested in a different, atmospheric way to explore the city’s history.

If you’re looking for a fun, engaging, and slightly spooky way to spend an evening in Philadelphia, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy storytelling, historic sites, and a little mystique, as long as they’re comfortable walking about a mile and don’t mind a dark, sometimes eerie ambiance.

Key Points

• Authentic spooky tales rooted in Philadelphia’s history, not just Hollywood horror.
• Visit historic sites like Independence Hall and City Tavern, blending ghost stories with real history.
• Guided by knowledgeable storytellers who bring the stories to life, making history engaging and entertaining.
• A relaxed walking pace suitable for most, with approximately a mile of walking involved.
• No drinks included, so budget extra for beverages at the pubs.
• Family-friendly or sensitive to spooky themes? Keep in mind the ghost stories and dark history might be intense for very young children.

The Experience in Detail

The Meeting Point and Atmosphere

The tour begins outside the Independence Beer Garden at 100 S Independence Mall West. Your guide, identifiable by a black US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and lantern, sets a slightly eerie mood right from the start. It’s a casual meet-up, and the vibe hints at stories waiting to be uncovered.

The Walking Tour and Historic Stops

Over the next two hours, expect to walk about a mile through the historic heart of Philadelphia. Your guide will narrate stories that stretch back to the 18th century, covering sites like Independence Hall, where the ghosts of Benjamin Franklin and Benedict Arnold are said to still wander. We loved how the guide’s storytelling combined genuine historical facts with spooky legends, making each location feel alive with history and mystery.

Haunted Pubs and Historic Sites

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the City Tavern, a 250-year-old watering hole where members of the Constitutional Convention once dreamed of a new nation. The guide will share tales of ghostly sightings and historic rumors that add a layer of intrigue to your drink. Although no drinks are included, you’re encouraged to enjoy a whiskey or beer of your choice here, adding a true tavern atmosphere to the experience.

Other stops include the grounds of Independence Hall and the site of the first US Bank, each with ghost stories and tales of curses and historic dramas. The story about two ironworkers lifting William Penn’s curse is a local legend that adds a quirky twist to the night.

The Eastern State Penitentiary

A particularly memorable part of the tour is a recounting of a daring escape from Eastern State Penitentiary, where the atmosphere is naturally intense. The guide’s storytelling brings to life the tension and desperation of those days behind bars, heightening the sense of haunted history.

Ghost Stories and Local Legends

Real reviews point out the guide’s skill in storytelling—Richard, a recent guest, praised the “amazing” guide and found the ghost stories interesting. Conversely, some felt that a more “in-character” approach would make the experience even more immersive. Regardless, the stories are crafted to entertain and educate, making each stop a small adventure.

Practical Details and Value

This is a budget-friendly tour at just $30 per person, which covers the guided walk and storytelling. Given the number of historic sites and the engaging narrative, this offers good value—especially since drinks are not included, giving you flexibility. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and you can reserve your spot with flexibility—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring cash for drinks, and dress weather-appropriate. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 21 or those with mobility issues, as it involves walking about a mile and some dark, potentially spooky themes.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This haunted pub crawl is ideal for history buffs who enjoy ghost stories and a lively storytelling style. It’s perfect for travelers looking for an atmospheric evening with a mix of comedy, history, and a little bit of spookiness. If you’re curious about Philadelphia’s darker, secretive past or want a different way to experience iconic sites, this tour offers a memorable blend of both.

However, if you prefer guided tours with lots of visual or interactive elements, this might feel more like a storytelling session than a fully immersive experience. Also, those who dislike walking or are sensitive to spooky themes might want to reconsider.

Final Thoughts

The Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl delivers a fun, slightly eerie look at Philadelphia’s history, told through engaging stories that connect past and present. You’ll visit some of the city’s most iconic sites, from Independence Hall to City Tavern, while soaking in ghostly legends that have been passed down for centuries. It’s a great way to combine learning with entertainment, especially if you enjoy a good story with your night out.

At just $30, it represents excellent value for a guided experience that offers a mix of history, humor, and haunted tales. The knowledgeable guides, like the one described in reviews as “amazing,” make the stories come alive, adding authenticity and personality. Keep in mind that drinks are extra, and the tour isn’t suited for those with mobility challenges or very young children.

All in all, this tour is a lively, engaging way to explore Philadelphia’s shadowy side, perfect for an eclectic evening with friends or a solo adventure into the city’s haunted corners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s not recommended for people under 21 due to the ghost stories and pub setting. It’s best suited for adults who enjoy history and spooky tales.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase beverages at the pubs visited during the tour, so plan accordingly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering about a mile of walking through historic Philadelphia.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts outside the Independence Beer Garden at 100 S Independence Mall West and ends back at the same location.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for more visitors to join in the fun.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring cash for drinks, and dress weather-appropriate. An ID is recommended if you plan to buy alcohol.

What if I want to cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility to fit your plans.

This haunted pub crawl combines Philadelphia’s historic charm with ghostly legends, offering an evening that’s both entertaining and educational. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just seeking a different kind of night out, this tour provides a memorable mix of storytelling, sightseeing, and a hint of the supernatural.